Want to weld aluminum? The conductivity and point of melting are much higher than steel alloys, so if you don’t know what you’re doing it can cause many burns. There’s also the issue with different materials used in production for these two types which makes choosing best aluminum welder for beginners difficult too! We examine everything from prices to features.
Our research led us down some interesting paths as well! We found many welders with varying degrees of power output available so shoppers can find something appropriate according to their skill level too. You’re reading some top picks from reviews based on countless user opinions and specifications provided by manufacturers so keep scrolling down below to find one suited just right for your needs today.
1 Minute Quick Review
With a hectic schedule? You’re not alone. Here’s what we have for you at your disposal in this short overview!
Editor’s Choice: LOTOS LTPDC2000D 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
“Most Multifunctional with versatile use, this machine is just what you need!“
Best for indoor: HITBOX ARC Lift TIG IGBT Inverter Welding Machine
” This comfortable machine is easy to carry around your home and indoor projects. ”
Best for Novice: Forney Easy Weld 298 Arc Welder
If you are a novice, then don’t worry the function is too easy!
Best for thick material: Everlast PowerTIG Tig Welder
The interface is very easy to access all the necessary features like adjustments settings.
Multifunctional: PRIMEWELD TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder
This is a modern-day welding machine with technology to make your job more convenient and precise.
Perfect for experts: Lincoln Electric POWER Welder
There is a wide range of features making your job easier.
Best for all of your needs: Lotos CT520D 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
With the 3 in one combo features, you won’t be needing anything else.
Best Budget Product: Forney Easy Welding Machine
This inverter-rated welder is perfect for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time or money on their welding needs!
Easy to Carry: Hobart 500570 Stickmate Welder
Weighing in at less than 20 pounds and coming with 10 ft. of electrode cable, this welding machine is easy to take anywhere you go!
Comfortable Use: MIG155GSV Dual Voltage Welding Machine
You will have all the necessary tools to have a blast in the welding experience included with the product.
Top 10 Best Aluminum Welder for Beginners
Here are some of the best aluminum welders you can try out. Check what they have to offer and pick the suitable one.
1. LOTOS LTPDC2000D 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
The LOTOS LTPDC2000D is the first multipurpose welder that can do it all. From welding to cutting and even plasma Ming! With 200A of power at your disposal scorching wires in a blink or two across many different types of metals up 1/2 inch thick; this tool will have more than enough juice for any project you’re working on today – whether big or small.
Technical Details
- Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 12.5 inches
- Weight: 37 Pounds
- Origin: China
- Frequency: Dual 110 V/220 V 50/60Hz
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Durable Material
The LOTOS LTPDC2000D is a superior choice for those looking to weld stainless steel and aluminum. This welder produces excellent quality with durable materials.
(+) Non-touch Pilot ARC
With the help of this aluminum welder, you can now cut metal without touching any part on its tip. With better quality and longer lifetime for a consumable item such as blades or electrodes with pilot arc technology in place!
(+) 3 in 1 Combo
Lotos LTPDC2000D is a multipurpose 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine that can weld, cut, and heat-treat all on the same machine.
Keep in Mind
(-) Speed variation
For the speed variation that comes with the machine, you need to be an expert to choose the perfect speed to suits your project.
The Machine Is Good For
If you’re new to arc or Stick welding, this unit is an ideal choice. Not only does it make things easier for beginners but also provides the top-rated plasma cutter that can cut almost any material.
2. HITBOX ARC Lift Tig IGBT Inverter Welding Machine
Choose the Hitbox TIG welder for its affordability and capability. This multi-function, universal arc welding machine can be used as an excellent choice to weld many different metal types both with gas or Arc – it’s your choice!
With certifications and features that make it excellent for TIG welding, the Hitbox welder can be used to weld any material. It comes with different settings perfect for your next project!
Specification
- Weight: 14.08 pounds
- Dimensions: 15.35” x 12.99” x 10.24”
- Material: Iron aluminum copper ABS
- Power Source: AC 220V
- Voltage: 220 Volts
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Compact and Sturdy
A welder is a high-quality tool that will last for the long term. Made from durable materials, it can withstand heavy use and still look good when you’re done with your project!
(+) Lightweight and Portable
If you’re looking for the lightest TIG welder available, then look no further than Hitbox’s new injection-molded model. This 14-pound machine has been designed with portability in mind.
(+) Multifunctional
A welder is a 2-in-1 tool that can do both TIG and MMA welding. With this, you don’t have to worry about getting your hands dirty or being stuck working!
Keep in Mind
(-) Heavy Duty project
Well, it is not recommended to do some heavy-duty projects with this machine.
The Machine Is Good For
The HITBOX ARC Lift Tig Welder is the perfect welder for those who are looking to be more versatile and can weld in many different applications.
3. Forney Easy Weld 298 Arc Welder
This is one of the best MIG welders for beginners because it makes learning easy and can be used in any country with 120V electricity. The welder also has infinite voltage, electronic speed control so you don’t have to worry about getting gas cans or dealing with toxic fumes like other machines do!
Specification
- Weight: 13.74 pounds
- Dimensions: 16.25 x 8 x 12.5 inches
- Origin: China
- Size: 100ST
- Color: Green
- Material: Metal
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Light in Weight
For the home market, these welders are a major bonus. They’re easy to set up and pack away with their lightweight design that takes up minimal room space!
(+) No Foot Paddle
The welders from Sears are great for those looking to purchase a welder that they can operate themselves without foot paddle.
(+) Easy to Use
These amazing welders include an 8′ electrode holder and ground clamp, which makes it easy to use without having someone else do all the work!
Keep in Mind
(-) Off Button
Some client faces some issues with the included off button in the welders. Anyway, the customer service is too good that you can get it fixed in no time.
The Machine Is Good For
Easy to store and carry, this aluminum welder makes the perfect choice for people who work from home or enjoy hobbies like welding in their spare time.
4. Everlast PowerTIG Tig Welder
Have you been looking for a powerful TIG welder that will meet your demanding welding requirements? The Everlast PowerTIG Tig Welder is here to save the day! This lightweight and compact unit weigh 85 pounds, so it’s easy enough to bring along on all of those moving projects. And with its low price point (and high power), this little guy won’t leave your wallet empty at night either.
Specification
- Weight: 85 pounds
- Dimensions: 24 x 9 x 17 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Power Source: Ac/dc
- Voltage: 240 Volts
- Amperage Capacity: 250 Amps
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Compacted and Durable
The compact size of this best aluminum welder for beginners is beneficial if you have limited space in your workshop. The heavy-duty metal casing adds durability so even though Everlast makes some pretty lightweight products overall they still provide quality equipment!
(+) Easy to Use
The easy-to-use interface of our Everlast welder allows for quick adjustments and selections.
(+) Ac Pulse Mode
Everlast’s 10Hz Advanced AC Pulse Mode is a great choice for welders who need to penetrate thicker metals and reduce warping on thinner ones.
Keep in Mind
(-) Expensive
The Everlast aluminum welding machine is one of the more expensive welders on this list, but every penny will be worth it with its top quality.
The Machine Is Good For
Everlast Power TIG, one of the best tig welders out there if you’re looking for something with a little more power and capacity. It can be used in all sorts’ motorsports projects as well as maintenance or fabrication so it’s perfect!
5. PRIMEWELD TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder
The Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC Welder is more than just a welding machine. You’ve got your pick of features, including adjustable arc distance and speed settings for different types of materials to weld at various ranges (up close up-close), as well as 30 amps on both DC input and output power sources!
Specification
- Dimensions: 23.58 x 16.81 x 12.8 inches
- Weight: 35.7 Pounds
- Material: Steel
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Multipurpose
It’s a versatile tool that combines 50A plasma cutting and welding in one convenient package. Plasma cutting, TIG welding and stick welder all in one convenient package-great for metals up 6 inches thick.
(+) Lightweight
Thanks to its compact design and lightweight, this transformer welding machine is perfect for home or Jobsite use. It weighs only 35lbs so you can take it with ease anywhere!
(+) Versatile
PrimeWeld CT-520D is a versatile welding machine that works with many different types of metal, including stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. It can also be used on cast iron or other ferrous materials like cobalt alloys for a superb result in Tough Jobs environments!
Keep in Mind
(-) Instruction Manual
The included instruction manual is pretty hard to understand, but once you master it, you’ll love it.
The Machine Is Good For
The Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC Welder is a made in US product, and capable to fit all of your welding requirements. It’s a versatile welder that works well for many applications – it’ll make your next project go smoothly!
6. Lincoln Electric POWER Welder
The Lincoln Electric WeldAll 160 Multi-Functional Welder with Dual 120V/230V Input is an incredibly lightweight and portable welder that can be used anywhere. The processes it offers include MIG, Stick, TIG, or Flux Core welding – meaning you are limited only by your imagination when choosing what metal project to work on!
Specification
- Weight: 11.97 pounds
- Dimensions: 29.02 x 10.51 x 5.98 inches
- Voltage: 120V or 230V
- Processing: MIG
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Versatile
The Lincoln Welder is a versatile and easy-to-use welding machine that’s perfect for experienced welders. It’s MIG/MAG capabilities make this an excellent choice, as does its ability to use different electrodes–it can even handle them with a foot paddle!
(+) Portable
The Lincoln PowerMIG 210 has a lightweight, small size that makes it easy to pack and go. Even if you are just using gas with a bike or taxi for work.
(+) Easy to Use
The new PowerMIG 210 MP not only has easy controls and a color display for beginners but also includes advanced settings that cater to experienced welders.
Keep in Mind
(-) High Price
If you’re looking for a welder that can do it all, then the Lincoln PowerMIG 210 MP might be exactly what your business needs. With its wide range of features and relatively high price point, this machine will cover most any welding need without breaking out bank account too much in one shot!
The Machine Is Good For
The Lincoln Welder is a well-made welder that can handle most jobs. It has the power and durability to do any task you throw at it, making this one tough little machine!
7. Lotos CT520D 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
The Lotos CT520D is an ideal welding machine for beginners, as well as professionals. This plasma cutter can be used on most materials to weld steel in a wide range of amperages – from 15A up 200+. It’s perfect if you’re looking not only to want the power but also to know how to use it correctly!
Specification
- Color: brown
- Weight: 33.1 pounds
- Material: steel
- Style: Air Plasma Cutter
Why Do We Like It?
(+) TIG Welding
The welding machine Lotos CT520D is a high-quality TIG welder, capable of producing some of the most precise welds on stainless steel or thin gauge materials.
(+) Easy to Install
With a 1-min setup, this welding machine can be up and running in no time. The pre-installed NPT 1/4” industry type D plug allows for connection with your compressed air source without hassle or delay—and the included filter regulator makes it easy to use as well!
(+) Dual Voltage
The Lotos Welding Machine is designed to work with both 220 V and 110V power sources, making it an extremely versatile tool.
Keep in Mind
(-) Not for Heavy Load Work
Well, this welding machine is limited to home and DYI use only. If you want to do some heavy-duty work, then look for some high-priced products.
The Machine Is Good For
This welder is perfect for beginners. It’s not the best choice if you’re going to be using your welder often, but it makes a great secondary device or spare!
8. Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i Welder
Beginners struggle with the control during welding with a welder. At this very point, Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i introduces 0.30 flux core wire. It opens the scope to work within infinite voltage and wire feed speed.
The welding capacity matters a lot for beginners. In the beginning stage, ¼ inch is an ideal capacity. Forney’s Easy Weld can work up to this capacity.
You’ll get a rugged and metal-bodied welder. Though it can handle sturdy environments for welding, the entire setup does not weigh more than 19 lbs. Beginners will get a large benefit from this.
The welder has a 6 feet cord to provide flexibility in the workplace.
Specifications
- Weight: 19lbs
- Style: MIG
- Output: 140 Amp
- Welding capacity: 1/4 inch
- Electrical input: 120V
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Lightweight
Weight is a contributing factor for choosing the best aluminum welder for beginners. 19lbs welder from Forney is surely a great deal for beginners.
(+) Durable
Metal body and rugged exterior make it capable of working at home or construction sites. Along with the portability, the durability makes it rank in the top 10.
(+) No limitation in wire feed speed control and voltage
The dial-up setting is useful for beginners to get rid of the hassle of wire-speed control and voltage stabilization.
Keep In Mind
(-) Flux core welding only
The welder can weld using flux core only. If you’re willing to learn MIG or TIG with the welder, it will malfunction.
The machine is good for
The transportability of the welder is highly beneficial for DIY projects and outdoor jobs. You can take the welder to different places for welding aluminum.
9. Hobart 500570 Stickmate 160i
During the learning stage, a beginner has to find a welder that can be easy to operate, transport, and control. Therefore, weight, build quality, and performance are major factors.
In these three areas, Hobart 500570 Stickmate 160i is a perfect one. The welder weighs less than 20lbs and it gives you full privilege to transport anywhere.
The operational and control processes of the welder are based on HotStar technology. It ensures higher dependability and greater performance.
As for a stick welder, it’ll run most efficiently in DC mode. If you’re thinking of welding aluminum with the welder, it gives you a capacity of welding up to 5/32 inches.
Specifications
- Weight: 15lbs
- Style: Stickmate
- Output: 160A
- Welding capacity: 5/32 inch
- Electrical input: 120V/240V
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Transportation
The welder is easy to carry at any place you wish. Also, the design is compact and precise for keeping all parts together.
(+) Compatible input power
If you’re planning to weld outside the home, the welder can make it possible with the feature of 120V/240V input power.
(+) One of the best for sturdy jobs
The product is wrapped with premium material making it capable of handling sturdy welding tasks.
Keep in mind
(-) Not made for MIG and TIG welding
The welder’s stickmate style suits perfectly with beginners. This is not recommended for professionals who are looking for welding aluminum in MIG or TIG style.
The Machine is good for
DIY projects and hobbyists will gain huge benefits from using the welder. 5/32-inch mild steel and aluminum welding is a subtle feature among welders.
10. MIG155GSV 155 AMP INVERTER MIG/STICK ARC WELDER
For beginners who want to grow expertise in welding, this welder will be the most suitable one from W Weldpro. One-of-a-kind welder that is designed to weld in both Stick and MIG styles.
Similar to other pro welders, this one is equipped with dual voltage. Beginners often face the issue of overheating and overcurrent welding. The IGBT technology in the welder protects from such cases.
Metal-made exterior in the welder keeps all parts safe from external environments. The welder has a capacity of welding up to 1/4 inch mild steel. For aluminum, stick welding is a more preferable option.
Specifications
- Weight: 21.2lbs
- Style: MIG and Stick
- Output: 30 to 155 Amp
- Welding capacity: ¼ inch
- Electrical input: 110/115V or 220/230V
Why Do We Like It?
(+) Near to be a pro
The welder’s welding capacity is more than beginner’s normal welders. The majority of the features in the welder matches with professional’s welders. To take a jump from beginner to pro, this welder is appropriate.
(+) Working voltage
115V/230V is a commendable feature for welders. This gives the welder a fit for working in construction sites and garages to weld aluminum.
(+) 2T/4T modes
Beginners have to struggle with controlling the trigger during welding. The welder is compatible with both 2T and 4T modes. This will bring good for welding.
The machine is good for
Learning MIG and stick welding at the same time is the key outcome from the welder. Also, it is capable of TIG welding if you can add the required accessories.
Buying Guide: How to Get the Best Aluminum Welder for Beginners
Welding is easy when you know which welder to use for which metal. Aluminum is a slightly different metal than the others. Therefore, you’ll need to consider some existing factors during the purchase.
This portion of the article will guide you through the buying process and considerable aspects. Let’s jump into the discussion.
- Style
The first thing you must know is that aluminum can be welded with MIG and TIG styles. Stick welding or SMAW is also a preference among hobbyists. However, you need to gather more accessories with stick welding.
Find out whether the welder is MIG/TIG in style. This is the first question to buy the aluminum welder for beginners.
In case you have a low budget, it is best to go for a stick welder. They are sturdy and useful for aluminum welding for beginners.
- Power Source
What is the purpose of your welding? If you’re looking for welders for outdoor welding, choose AC-compatible welders.
AC welders can be worked perfectly in remote environments and locations. You’ll not need to worry about powering up the welder again.
Also, there are some welders run both in AC and DC. This is an ideal one if you have to move now and then.
- Ampere range
You must know that a welder should be efficient. MIG welding and TIG welding are two different options for aluminum welding.
MIG and TIG are used mostly for welding aluminum. But the efficiency will differ according to the thinness and thickness. For thin aluminum, TIG is a suitable option. It can weld efficiently only when the welder can generate the required heating.
On the other hand, MIG welding is highly effective and efficient for thick aluminum. It requires generating current from the welder. The ampere range is the key factor differentiating in both of these aspects.
When you choose the welder, make sure that it has a suitable ampere range to support the welding task. Otherwise, it’ll be a waste of money and time.
Luckily, the market has plenty of options and we picked the best ones above. In terms of ampere range, you need to select among MIG, TIG, and Stick welders. The thickness of the aluminum will determine which one to be chosen.
- Weight
This feature is extremely important to decide you are very fast or the next welder. For welding outdoor areas, we’ll suggest choosing a lightweight welder. You can transport easily and never have to worry about taking help from others.
If you’re going to set up the welding at your garage, go for the big ones with more functions. This is to get the best result from welding aluminum. However, beginners should choose lightweight welders so that they can learn to work outside.
- Build quality
You cannot risk damaging the welder by choosing a less durable one. The build quality and materials used in building are important for selecting a perfect welder for beginners.
The build quality will differ according to metal and plastics. Also, it’ll be best if you can get a rugged welder to weld aluminum with. They’re the best with cutting-edge design.
In short, aluminum welding is an easy one. Once you find every determining factor described above, the purchasing process will turn extremely easy. A beginner has to find a welder that can be a part of his welding career for a long time.
Final Thoughts
What’s your thought on our best picks? The best aluminum welder for beginners should be the one with more convenience and fewer complications. It lessens struggle and gives more expertise in welding.
If every factor matches accordingly, pick one from the list. Get a welding machine for learning and turn yourself into an expert aluminum welder. Always read the manual and get help from nearby welders to avoid accidents.